If your pet needs help dealing with arthritis, chemotherapy or a neurological issue, CBD oil may be the help you’re looking for.
Where Does CBD Oil Come From?
CBD is a non-psychoactive chemical compound that is derived from the cannabis plant. The cannabis plant has multiple species, the two most widely recognized being hemp and marijuana. The biggest difference between these cannabis species are the levels of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) they contain. THC is the main psychoactive compound that gives the feeling of being “high.”
The marijuana plant contains high levels of THC. Meanwhile, the hemp plant contains very low levels of THC and won’t alter your pet’s mental state. Most CBD products are derived from hemp.
How Does CBD Oil Help Pets?
CBD oil is not a cure-all but there are instances where it’s been found to work particularly well. For pets with chronic pain, GI issues, arthritis, muscle trauma or neurological issues, CBD oil can be useful in conjunction with the current therapy. Medication side effects such as ulcers and tummy upset can be avoided or improved with the addition of CBD oil. The goal is to make your pet comfortable without causing side effects from the long-term use of anti-inflammatory drugs. Pets undergoing chemotherapy, often see less nausea and stay on food better when also using CBD oil.
Dogs and cats that suffer seizures have also responded well to the use of CBD oil, especially pets dealing with refractory seizures due to brain damage issues caused by the distemper virus or other trauma. Mild seizures may be adequately controlled with CBD oil alone.
Does CBD Oil Help with Anxiety in Dogs and Cats?
CBD oil can be quite helpful when pets struggle with anxiety due to separation, storms, fireworks or travel. CBD oil helps anxiety by calming or relaxing the nervous system. CBD oil used with behavior modifying therapy can make changing the behavior and lowering the anxiety of your pet much more successful.
It is important to keep in mind that CBD oil does not work right away for every animal. Like all herbal products, CBD oil does not produce instant results. Pets typically need to take the proper dose of CBD oil for about two weeks before it works as expected. There is little drawback from using CBD oil and there are few side effects or toxicity concerns.
Products containing CBD oil have their place and are being used medicinally for issues that, in the past, were not easily controlled. If you have any questions about CBD oil or products containing hemp oil don’t hesitate to give our Pet Care Pros a call at 800.786.4751.
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Written by: Donald Bramlage, DVM
Donald Bramlage, Doctor of Veterinary Medicine, practiced veterinary medicine for 30+ years and is known for his work in managing parvovirus. He received his Doctor of Veterinary Medicine from Kansas State University in 1985. He served as Revival’s Director of Veterinary Services from 2011 until his retirement in 2019.